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Miami Heat Looking To Add Another Star, Reportedly Like Victor Oladipo’s Game

The Miami Heat are one of the 22 teams set to return in Orlando for the resumption of the season. Yet, even though their season is far from over, the Heat, as early as now, are already establishing plans for the following 2020-21 NBA season.

With the emergence of first-time All-Star, Bam Adebayo, and the prominent addition of two-way veteran Jimmy Butler from last year’s summer, the Heat seemingly aren’t contented and are looking to add more star power to the team. Recent speculations suggest Miami could pursue Indiana Pacers shooting guard Victor Oladipo. 

In an article released by the ‘Miami Herald‘, author Barry Jackson indicated that Antetokounmpo remains a possibility for Miami. However, he also speculated that Oladipo is one of the most likely options for the team, if they fail to land the Milwaukee Bucks superstar. 

Indiana guard Victor Oladipo (2021 unrestricted free agent): He trains in South Florida in the offseason, and from all indications, likes South Florida. The Heat likes his game. I would put him (Oladipo) No. 1 on the most likely list if Miami doesn’t get Antetokounmpo, and if he returns to his old form — two big ifs.

Oladipo’s health has been a concern for the Indiana Pacers this year. And most likely, it will affect how teams, including the Heat, perceive Oladipo once they enter free agency. Prior to the hiatus, the Pacers shooting guard has only played 13 games this season and was averaging 13.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.0 assists per game on 39.1%  shooting.

Despite struggling, Oladipo has shown flashes suggesting that he could return to his previous level of play. In his last three games, he was averaging 19.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.0 assists per game on 45.5% shooting while only playing 27.5 minutes per game. This also includes putting up a 27-point game against the Boston Celtics in their last game before the season was halted.

While Antetokounmpo is surely the biggest fish on the market, if healthy, Oladipo is still worth gambling for. An addition of Oladipo would certainly put the Heat to the next level while giving rise to a big 3 of Butler, Adebayo and Oladipo. 

The Heat are currently sitting in fourth in the Eastern Conference with 41 wins. They have been exceeding expectations throughout the season, giving the impression of being a dark-horse team that could make the Finals in the East.